Alpine Rock Climbing

When the weather heats up, rock climbers head to elevation to beat the heat. Alpine rock climbing takes your cragging skills to the next level, requiring solid movement skills in 4th and low-5th class rock, and employs a rope for short belays and steeper more difficult pitches. Alpine climbing typically provides a more solitary experience in locations that achieve birds-eye views and require continuous climbing.

There are areas all over Oregon that afford excellent alpine rock climbing in accessible settings. On the second day of your alpine climbing course you may climb in the Marsupials high above Smith Rock State Park, explore the Cascades on Mt. Washington, Three Fingered Jack or Broken Top, or attempt the summit of the unique and rarely climbed Illumination Rock on Mt. Hood.

This is a 2-day course designed for beginners, and your guide will adjust the itinerary based on your level of experience and performance. On Day 1 of your course, you’ll go to Smith Rock State Park and cover the basics of rock climbing. You’ll become familiar with tying in to an anchor, belaying a lead-climber, and climbing commands. You will do a multi-pitch practice climb. On day 2 your objective will be determined by you and your guide collaboratively, based on your interests and abilities. We may attempt a traverse of one or more of the peaks of the Marsupials, the ridge of summits that overlooks Smith Rock State Park. Or we can head into the Cascades to attempt the summit of Three Fingered Jack, Mt. Washington, or Broken Top. Either way we’ll put your new rock skills to work in a spectacular alpine arena, with incredible views and excellent rock.

Additional dates are available upon request. This program can be scheduled any day of the week, but the Cascades summits are available Mondays-Thursdays only due to permitting restrictions! Weekend programs will climb alpine-style routes in the Marsupials area, overlooking Smith Rock State Park.